The Control Panel home page has a "Widgets" system, which allows you to add any number of widgets to display when you log in. A widget is basically a little self-contained box, each type performing a different task. For example, some widgets provide you with various information about your web site (such as pages in draft that require approval), while others help you perform various tasks quicker (such as seeing most recent e-commerce orders). Widgets exist on a per-user basis, meaning other users who can manage your site will have their own widgets.
To add a new widget to the home page, select the widget to add from the right-hand side of the page, then click . You will then see the new widget appear in the right-most column.
To remove a widget from your home page, simply click on the close icon in the top-right corner of the widget. You will then see it disappear from the page. You can add it back later if you please.
Depending on the size of your computer monitor, you may want a different number of columns in which to hold the widgets. To increase the number of columns, click the link on the right-hand side of the home page.
To decrease the number of columns, click the link on the right-hand side of the home page.
You can change the column in which a widget is held by clicking and dragging the title bar of the widget. Drag it to new position you want it in. In addition to changing its column, you can also change the order of widgets within a column.